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 How do archaeologists know what daily life was like in cultures that left no written history? Archaeologists and anthropologists rely on many forms of evidence to paint a picture of past cultures. Archaeological excavations uncover the remains of everyday life from the past that have become buried over time. Evidence from excavations might range from pottery, to human remains, to remnants of meals eaten thousands of years ago. Garbage is an excellent source of information—an archaeological treasure—because it is full of clues about the everyday lives of people. Using these clues and sophisticated technologies to date and map these remnants, archaeologists construct hypotheses about the ways of life of ancient peoples, the interactions they had with their neighbors, and their relationship to the natural and spiritual worlds. Archaeology fills in the gap (and sometimes corrects inaccuracies) in historic texts, too. Cultural anthropologists and ethnohistorians use other forms of evidence to construct their interpretations of cultures past and present. Oral histories, songs, writings, and dances can often reveal clues to a group’s history, religious beliefs, and place of origin. Accounts by travelers from long ago, artifacts that have been passed down from generation to generation, and changes in linguistic practices also provide important clues. Interviews, surveys, and participant observation among contemporary peoples further assist scientists in understanding the links between the present and the past. Continue to FAQ’s about The Americas. >> back >> |
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